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In a significant gathering addressing the evolving challenges of information integrity in the digital age, the ninth edition of DISICON kicks off today in Kosovo’s capital, Pristina. The two-day conference, organized by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) in Kosovo, brings together experts, tech representatives, and political figures at the Klan Arena on December 8-9, 2025.
This year’s DISICON focuses on the timely and increasingly critical intersection of “Elections, Artificial Intelligence and Ethics,” a theme that resonates globally as democracies worldwide grapple with technology’s growing influence on electoral processes.
The conference comes at a crucial moment when artificial intelligence tools are rapidly transforming information ecosystems across the Balkans and beyond. As elections face unprecedented technological challenges, from deepfakes to algorithmic manipulation, the gathering aims to establish frameworks for maintaining democratic integrity in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.
A highlight of the event will be the unveiling of “UnSocial Media 2,” a comprehensive research study that builds on previous work examining social media’s impact on democratic discourse in the region. The research is expected to provide fresh insights into how online platforms are shaping public opinion and political participation in Kosovo and neighboring countries.
The conference will dedicate significant attention to the gendered dimensions of disinformation, with specialized sessions exploring the disproportionate impact of online harassment on women in politics. Experts will discuss targeted strategies that malicious actors employ against female political figures and public servants, a growing concern across democracies worldwide.
“The intersection of gender, technology, and politics represents one of the most pressing challenges for democratic institutions today,” noted a statement from conference organizers. “DISICON 9 aims to not only identify these challenges but develop practical solutions for addressing them.”
The gathering will feature practical training components designed for journalists covering public affairs and women representatives in politics. These sessions will focus on developing resilience against information disorders and equipping participants with tools to identify and counter AI-generated disinformation.
Kosovo, having navigated its own complex relationship with disinformation campaigns in recent years, serves as a meaningful backdrop for these discussions. The country has increasingly become a focal point for examining how younger democracies can build robust defenses against information threats.
Representatives from major technology companies will participate alongside regional and international experts, creating an unusual forum where Big Tech can directly engage with those affected by platform policies. This dialogue aims to bridge the gap between technology developers and the communities impacted by their products.
By bringing together this diverse coalition of stakeholders, DISICON 9 organizers hope to produce actionable recommendations that can serve as a regional benchmark for information integrity. The conference results are expected to influence policy approaches across the Balkans and potentially shape broader European strategies on combating disinformation.
The NDI, which has maintained a significant presence in Kosovo since the country’s independence, continues to support democratic institution-building through initiatives like DISICON. The conference represents part of wider efforts to strengthen democratic resilience across Southeastern Europe, particularly as digital threats become more sophisticated.
As artificial intelligence technologies continue their rapid evolution, forums like DISICON have taken on renewed significance in establishing ethical guardrails and protecting democratic processes from manipulation. The outcomes of this year’s gathering will likely influence approaches to information integrity well beyond Kosovo’s borders.
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21 Comments
Maintaining democratic integrity in an AI-driven landscape is a critical challenge. I’m glad to see Kosovo hosting this important conference to address these emerging threats.
Agreed, the stakes are high. Looking forward to seeing what frameworks and best practices come out of this event.
The research study on social media’s impact on democratic discourse sounds fascinating. I’m curious to learn more about the findings and their implications.
Yes, that study will be a key output of the conference. Hopefully it can provide valuable insights to policymakers and tech companies alike.
Interesting to see this DISICON conference tackling the complex issues around AI and disinformation. As AI capabilities advance, maintaining electoral integrity will be a growing challenge for democracies worldwide.
Agree, the rise of deepfakes and algorithmic manipulation is a real threat that needs to be addressed. Frameworks for ethical AI development will be crucial.
The DISICON conference seems like a timely and necessary forum for addressing the complex intersection of AI, ethics, and elections. I look forward to seeing the outcomes.
Glad to see the Balkans taking a proactive approach to these issues. Disinformation campaigns can undermine public trust, so I’m curious to learn more about the “UnSocial Media 2” research study.
Yes, understanding social media’s impact on democratic discourse is so important. Hopefully the conference can shed light on effective ways to combat online manipulation.
Disinformation and AI-powered manipulation pose serious risks to free and fair elections. This conference seems timely and necessary to tackle these complex issues.
As AI systems become more advanced, the potential for abuse is concerning. I hope the DISICON conference can help establish ethical guidelines and responsible development practices.
Absolutely. Proactive measures to ensure AI is used to strengthen, not undermine, democratic processes will be crucial.
Tackling disinformation and the misuse of AI in elections is a global challenge. It’s encouraging to see Kosovo taking a leadership role in addressing these issues.
Absolutely. Democratic institutions around the world will need to work together to develop effective, coordinated responses.
The threat of deepfakes and algorithmic manipulation is a real concern. I hope the conference can identify practical solutions to safeguard the integrity of elections.
Me too. Maintaining public trust in democratic processes is crucial, so this is an important issue that needs urgent attention.
As someone concerned about the impact of AI on society, I’ll be following the DISICON conference with great interest. Establishing ethical frameworks is vital.
Curious to see what insights the “UnSocial Media 2” study will uncover. Social media’s influence on political discourse is a complex and evolving challenge.
Kudos to the organizers for putting together this important event. Addressing the intersection of AI, elections, and ethics is crucial for safeguarding democratic institutions.
The intersection of AI, elections, and ethics is a complex and sensitive topic. I hope the DISICON conference can foster open and constructive dialogue to find solutions.
Given the rapid advancements in AI, this conference comes at a critical time. I hope the discussions lead to concrete solutions for protecting elections from digital manipulation.